Actress Winona Ryder recently reflected on her early days in Hollywood, revealing how her parents went to great lengths to protect her as a child actor. Despite her success at a young age, Ryder's parents opted not to relocate to Los Angeles, instead choosing to make the seven-hour drive from San Francisco for her auditions. Education was a top priority in her family, and Ryder had to maintain good grades to be allowed to pursue acting opportunities.
Ryder's parents were cautious about the pitfalls of Hollywood, citing Judy Garland's tragic story as a cautionary tale. Their decision to stay away from the Hollywood scene ultimately proved to be a blessing, as Ryder witnessed many child actors who struggled with burnout after relocating and supporting their families.
One audition that Ryder was determined not to miss was for Tim Burton's iconic film 'Beetlejuice' in 1988. This audition marked a turning point in her career, as she landed the role of Lydia Deetz, which catapulted her to stardom. Ryder recalled her initial meeting with Burton, mistaking him for a member of the art department before realizing he was the director.
Despite her reputation for being selective with projects, Ryder explained that financial constraints often dictated her choices. However, her collaboration with Burton on 'Beetlejuice' and subsequent films like 'Edward Scissorhands' and 'Frankenweenie' solidified her place in Hollywood.
